Age Connects Torfaen in partnership with Hospice of the Valleys will be able to support 300 unpaid carers to take a much-needed break from their caring responsibilities thanks to £197,000 in funding awarded through the Short Breaks Scheme.
Age Connects Torfaen supports unpaid carers of people living with dementia throughout Torfaen & Blaenau Gwent. Its project, ‘Your Time, Your Choice’ will help carers to access a range of activities, including nights away, peer support groups and wellbeing sessions.
The Short Breaks Scheme is funded by Welsh Government and co-ordinated by Carers Trust Wales. In the first nine months of the scheme, over one million pounds has been awarded by Carers Trust Wales to charities and third sector organisations across Wales.
Kate Cubbage, Director Carers Trust Wales, says, “The Short Breaks Scheme has the power to transform lives, providing vital respite to those facing the many challenges that come with being an unpaid carer. We are delighted that Age Connects Torfaen successfully applied for funding to support carers in Torfaen & Blaenau Gwent. Together we are offering a lifeline to unpaid carers and the chance for them to gain some balance in their lives.”
Age Connects Torfaen’s grant will support the purchase of a variety of items and help carers to take part in a wide range of activities, from nature walks to yoga classes. Through the peer support sessions, carers will be able to receive invaluable support and friendships with other cares in similar situations.
Sarah Windsor Dementia Shortbreaks Co-ordinator says, “These breaks will offer carers in Torfaen a little time to relax, to recharge their batteries and build resilience. They will provide a much-needed break for both the carers and those they care for, and can be the one thing in their lives that keeps them going.”
For further information, please contact Sarah Windsor by email sarah.windsor@ageconnectstorfaen.org
